Toni Rudiger leaving Chelsea as Real Madrid move confirmed
Toni Rudiger is leaving Chelsea for Real Madrid (Adam Davy/PA)
Chelsea defender Toni Rudiger will join Real Madrid at the end of his current contract, the Premier League club have announced.
The 29-year-old will leave Stamford Bridge after five years after turning down a lucrative new deal, instead choosing to join the European champions on a free transfer.
A statement on Chelsea’s website read: “We bid farewell to Antonio Rudiger as he departs Stamford Bridge with his Chelsea contract expiring, bringing to a close his five trophy-filled years with the club.
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“The German defender has left the Blues to join Real Madrid, having played a huge role in our successes in recent seasons.
“Rudiger lifted the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea, playing a crucial role in all those triumphs at the heart of our defence.”
The Germany international said on Instagram: “I’m proud to announce that I’ll be joining @RealMadrid.
“I’m super excited for all the challenges ahead and can’t wait to play my first games for this huge club.”
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